Profile photo of Donald T. Saposnek, Ph.D

Donald T. Saposnek, Ph.D

Consultant Mediator
Santa Cruz, CA, United States

About

Since 1977, this practitioner has specialized in child custody mediation and family dispute resolution. He has managed thousands of cases involving high-conflict divorces and has spent decades refining techniques for child-centered mediation. His professional background bridges clinical psychology and dispute resolution, focusing on the developmental needs of children during parental separation.

Practice Areas

Child Custody & Parenting Family Law & Divorce

Professional Experience

Private Practice Mediator and Child Custody Consultant
Adjunct Professor at University of California
Santa Cruz
Director of Family Court Services
Editor of the Academy of Family Mediators' Mediation Quarterly

Publications Leadership

  • Author of 'Mediating Child Custody Disputes: A Strategic Approach'
  • Co-author of 'Splitting America: How Politicians, Super PACs and the News Media Mirror High Conflict Divorce'
  • Former Editor-in-Chief of the Mediation Quarterly journal
  • Contributor to numerous professional journals on family mediation and child development

Positioning Takeaways

This neutral is a highly experienced clinical psychologist who offers a specialized, child-focused approach to complex family law disputes and custody arrangements.

License & Certifications

  • Licensed Psychologist (California)
  • Certified Online Mediator
  • Certified Mediator
  • Mediate.com Certified Mediator

Education

Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology
The Ohio State University

Distinction

Author of the seminal text 'Mediating Child Custody Disputes' and a pioneer in the field of child-centered mediation since the late 1970s.

Reputation

He is widely regarded as a foundational figure in family mediation, known for his deep psychological insights into child development and his ability to navigate the most volatile high-conflict custody cases.